Katy, Texas, is one of the fastest-growing suburbs of Houston, attracting families and professionals alike with its top-rated schools, strong job market, and high quality of life. If you’re considering moving to Katy or looking for job opportunities in the area, you’re probably wondering: What’s the average salary in Katy, TX?
In this article, we’ll explore salary trends, industry-specific earnings, and the cost of living to give you a full picture of what to expect financially in this thriving Texas city.
What Is the Average Salary in Katy, TX?
The average salary in Katy, TX, varies based on industry, job role, experience, and education level. Different sources provide different figures, but here’s what the data suggests:
- Payscale reports an average salary of $83,000 per year in Katy, with salaries increasing by 0.3% in Q4 2024.
- ZipRecruiter estimates the average hourly wage at $19.50, which translates to an annual salary of about $40,556.
- Talent.com states that the average annual salary is around $72,400, with entry-level salaries starting at $69,823 and experienced professionals making up to $80,250.
- SalaryExpert provides a slightly lower figure, with an average salary of $69,696.
- DataUSA.io reports the median household income in Katy at $115,250, while the per capita income is $45,327.
Clearly, salaries in Katy can vary significantly based on your profession and industry. Let’s take a closer look at what some of the most common jobs in the area pay.
Top-Paying Industries and Jobs in Katy, TX
Katy has a diverse economy, with strong job opportunities in multiple industries. Here’s a breakdown of some of the highest-paying industries and common job roles:
1. Energy and Engineering
As a suburb of Houston—the energy capital of the U.S.—Katy benefits from the presence of major oil and gas companies. Jobs in this sector often come with high salaries and excellent benefits.
- Petroleum Engineers: $120,000 – $150,000
- Mechanical Engineers: $85,000 – $110,000
- Project Managers (Oil & Gas): $100,000+
2. Healthcare and Medical Fields
Katy has a growing healthcare sector, with several hospitals and medical centers providing employment. Healthcare professionals tend to earn competitive wages.
- Physicians & Surgeons: $200,000+
- Registered Nurses (RNs): $75,000 – $95,000
- Pharmacists: $120,000 – $135,000
3. Education and Teaching
Katy ISD (Independent School District) is one of the top-rated school districts in Texas, making education a vital sector in the area.
- High School Teachers: $60,000 – $80,000
- College Professors (Local Universities/Colleges): $75,000 – $100,000
- School Administrators: $90,000+
4. Technology and IT
With the rise of remote work and tech startups, IT professionals are in demand in Katy.
- Software Engineers: $85,000 – $120,000
- IT Managers: $100,000+
- Cybersecurity Specialists: $90,000 – $130,000
5. Real Estate and Construction
As more people move to Katy, real estate and construction remain strong industries.
- Real Estate Agents: $70,000 – $150,000 (Commission-based)
- Construction Project Managers: $85,000 – $120,000
- Architects: $80,000 – $110,000
6. Retail and Hospitality
With Katy Mills Mall and a variety of restaurants, hospitality and retail jobs also contribute to the local economy.
- Retail Store Managers: $45,000 – $70,000
- Restaurant Managers: $50,000 – $75,000
- Hotel General Managers: $75,000+
Cost of Living in Katy, TX
While salaries in Katy are generally strong, the cost of living is about 9% higher than the national average. Here’s a look at some of the biggest expenses:
Housing Costs
- Median Home Price: $350,000 – $400,000
- Average Rent for a 1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,300 – $1,700 per month
- Average Rent for a 3-Bedroom House: $2,000 – $3,000 per month
Utilities and Transportation
- Electricity & Water Bills: $150 – $250 per month
- Gasoline Prices: Higher than the national average due to Houston’s traffic and commuting distances.
- Public Transportation: Limited options, so most people rely on cars.
Groceries and Dining
- Grocery costs are slightly higher than the U.S. average, with common items like milk, eggs, and meat being a bit more expensive.
- Dining out: A meal at an affordable restaurant costs around $15 – $20 per person, while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant costs $60 – $80.
Is Katy, TX, a Good Place to Live Based on Salary?
With above-average salaries and a strong job market, Katy is an excellent choice for many professionals. However, here are a few factors to consider:
✔ Pros:
✅ High median income and strong job market
✅ Excellent schools and family-friendly communities
✅ Close proximity to Houston’s job opportunities
❌ Cons:
Higher housing costs compared to some Texas suburbs
Commute times can be long if working in downtown Houston
Higher cost of living than national averages
Overall, if you land a well-paying job in Katy or Houston, the area offers a fantastic quality of life with great amenities, schools, and employment opportunities.
Final Thoughts: Should You Move to Katy Based on Salary Trends?
Katy, TX, is a great place to live and work, but understanding salary trends and cost of living is key to making the right decision.
If you’re in high-paying industries like healthcare, energy, or tech, you’ll likely thrive in Katy with a comfortable income.
If you’re considering moving to Katy, ensure that your salary aligns with the cost of living, especially housing prices.
If you’re job hunting in Katy, explore high-growth industries that match your skills to maximize your earning potential.
Would you move to Katy for work? Or are you already a resident? Drop a comment below and share your experience!